Metaxata is an ancient settlement. In the 1930s Professor Marinatos discovered tombs from the Mycenean era - some thousand years BC, in Metaxata! A 1960s excavation unearthed numerous pieces of pottery which are now housed in the Kefalonia Archeological museum in Argostoli.

Metaxata has quite an important place in the history of Kefalonia (Cephalonia), once being the seat of the Archbishopric of Kefalonia and also home to the island's first printing press.

In the middle of the fifteenth century Markantonios Metaxas settled here, a famous warrior of his time, fighting at the fall of Constantinople and conquering the Greek island of Chios. The villagers renamed the village Metaxata after him.

Lord Byron stayed in Metaxata for several months and it was here that he wrote his epic poem, Don Juan. Kefalonia was his last place of residence before he joined the resistance in Messolongi on mainland Greece. He was to loose his life fighting in the Greek War of Indepence. He is remembered with affection by Greeks today.

Today around 350 people live in Metaxata but the numbers swell in the summer months when many Kefalonians return to their island and tourists visit. Why not treat yourself to a Kefalonia Digital Information Pack with easy to do walks, wildlife booklets and guides. Click here to download

A bust of Lord Byron can be seen in the village square. Immediately behind the square is the site of his house, which is marked by a plaque.

Follow the short road between the square and Byron's house for amazing views over the Livathos region of Kefalonia (Cephalonia).

Behind Metaxatas pretty church is the site of the Mycenean tombs, although there is not much to see today. Why not treat yourself to a car hire whilst you're on Kefalonia so you get the most out of your visit. Click here for Kefalonia Car Hire